There’s a new colour turning heads at coffee counters across the country — and it’s not your usual caramel or mocha.
It’s purple.
And it might just be your next obsession.
Starbucks South Africa has introduced Ube Vanilla, a bold and intriguing addition to its Summer 2 beverage range — inviting South Africans to experience a flavour they may have never tried before, but won’t soon forget.
The Purple Drink That’s Changing the Menu
Imagine holding a soft, violet-toned latte. It looks unexpected, almost surreal — but one sip reveals something surprisingly familiar.
Smooth.
Nutty.
Gently sweet.
With a warmth that settles like vanilla.
This is Ube — pronounced oo-beh — a vibrant purple yam long celebrated in Filipino cuisine, especially in desserts and sweet treats.
Its naturally creamy texture and subtle vanilla-like undertones make it an ideal companion for coffee and matcha, creating a flavour profile that feels both new and comforting at the same time.
A Flavour Rooted in Culture, Reimagined for Coffee Lovers
For generations, ube has been a staple in Filipino kitchens — used in everything from cakes and pastries to festive desserts.
Now, Starbucks South Africa is bringing that cultural richness into the modern café experience, blending tradition with innovation.
The result?
A drink that doesn’t just stand out visually — but delivers a taste that lingers, inviting you back for another sip.
Six Ways to Experience Ube Vanilla
The new range offers something for every kind of coffee (and non-coffee) lover, with six carefully crafted beverages:
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Ube Vanilla Velvet Latte
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Iced Ube Vanilla Velvet Latte
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Iced Ube Vanilla Matcha Latte
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Ube Vanilla Velvet Matcha Latte
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Ube Vanilla Frappuccino®
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Ube Vanilla Cream Frappuccino®
Each drink brings its own personality — from the comforting warmth of a latte to the refreshing coolness of iced blends and the indulgent creaminess of a Frappuccino®.
According to Ishan Natalie, the appeal lies in how effortlessly the flavour connects with people.
“Each one has its own character. The warmth of a well-made latte, the vanilla notes, the espresso blends. These are flavours that feel like home. Ube is easy to love and even easier to order again.”
A Seasonal Treat Worth Discovering
As the final stretch of summer unfolds, Starbucks is offering customers a chance to try something different — something unexpected.
The Ube Vanilla range is available now at Starbucks stores nationwide, giving coffee lovers across South Africa the opportunity to step out of their routine and explore a new flavour experience.
Prefer your coffee delivered?
The range is also available through Uber Eats and Mr D, making it easier than ever to get your hands on the season’s most eye-catching drink.
More Than Just a Drink
In a market filled with familiar flavours, Ube Vanilla stands out — not just because of its colour, but because of what it represents.
Curiosity.
Creativity.
And the simple joy of trying something new.
Because sometimes, the best things are the ones you didn’t expect to love.
